Tag: Traffic ranks

Traffic ranks trained to uphold impartiality, ethics ahead of elections

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Law enforcement officers attached to the Traffic Department were recently engaged in a critical training session focused on election offences and preparedness, with particular emphasis on the general principles guiding police conduct during elections.
The training forms part of ongoing national efforts to strengthen law enforcement readiness ahead of Guyana’s next electoral cycle.
The session, held at the Officers’ Training Centre in Eve Leary, was led by Attorney-at-Law and Superintendent of Police, Delon Fraser. It aimed to deepen the officers’ understanding of their legal responsibilities and ethical obligations during elections.
Superintendent Fraser provided a comprehensive overview of the legal framework governing Guyana’s electoral process, referencing key legislation such as the Representation of the People Act (Chapter 1:03) and the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act (Chapter 1:04). One of the most critical components of the training was the examination of the core principles that must guide police officers throughout the election period.

Fraser reminded the ranks that policing during elections goes beyond mere enforcement—it involves upholding democratic values and safeguarding citizens’ rights. Officers were therefore instructed to maintain a strict code of ethics, which includes conducting themselves impartially regardless of political pressure, demonstrating composure and discipline in high-tension situations, and managing large gatherings in a lawful and respectful manner. The training emphasised that any use of force must be lawful, proportionate, and only exercised when absolutely necessary, with a preference for non-lethal methods—particularly in the event of public disorder. Officers were also reminded of their responsibilities when managing areas designated as “proclaimed” under the law and were urged to remain vigilant, adhere to proper reporting protocols, and ensure swift, coordinated responses to any emerging threats or breaches.

Fraser underscored that internalising these principles is vital, as the professionalism and conduct of police officers can greatly influence public trust in the integrity of the electoral process. The session also incorporated practical elements, including guidance on identifying electoral offences and drafting appropriate charges. Relevant laws were examined from several Acts, including the Public Order Act, Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Summary Jurisdiction Act, Local Authorities (Elections) Act, and the Racial Hostility Act.
Superintendent Fraser urged all officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and vigilance in service of free, fair, and transparent elections.

Superintendent of Police, Delon Fraser

Superintendent of Police, Delon Fraser

Traffic ranks to be armed with taser gun

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

raffic ranks will be equipped with taser guns to protect themselves during enforcement operations.

The decision comes as traffic officers face mounting challenges in executing their responsibilities, particularly from citizens who are increasingly breaking traffic laws and resisting lawful orders, police said in a release.

Some offenders have even resorted to physically attacking the unarmed officers.

Several social media posts have shown members of the public violently resisting and assaulting police officers in uniform with apparent impunity. The Guyana Police Force said it has initiated training for its ranks in the use of less-than-lethal and non-lethal force.

“No longer will members of the public be allowed to violently assault members of the Force with impunity when enforcing the laws. All offenders are forewarned that whoever commits traffic violations and do not cooperate with the Police as is mandated by the Constitution of Guyana will be dealt with as provided for by law,” said Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh.

Traffic ranks are now expected to carry tasers as a minimum non-lethal option to subdue aggressive offenders, with the goal of ensuring their safety and upholding the law.

“I want to re-emphasise that this type of behaviour by our citizens will not be condoned by the Guyana Police Force, more so the Department. Anyone found committing any traffic offence in this country and when challenge by our traffic officers resort to violently resisting and assaulting them will be met with the full force of the law,” the Traffic Chief said.

“I have given instructions to all traffic officers throughout the country to continue enforcing the laws as mandated by the Police Act Chapter 16:01 and be prepared to deal condignly with violators who would attempt to resist them violently,” he declared.

Offenders who violently attack traffic officers will be tased, arrested, and prosecuted according to the law. The tasers, a tool of minimum non-lethal force, will be used strictly within the legal framework to ensure that law enforcement can carry out its mandate effectively and safely, the release said.